Giffords seeks FEC approval for security upgrades

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords is asking the Federal Election Commission for permission to use campaign funds to pay for security upgrades to her home.

Giffords, D-Ariz., was shot in the head Jan. 8 in a rampage that killed six people. She has been undergoing rehab therapy in Houston, where her husband, Mark Kelly, lives.

Michael McNulty, treasurer of Giffords' campaign, wrote the FEC asking for permission to use campaign funds for the upgrades. McNulty said in a letter that the upgrades, estimated to cost $2,200, were recommended by the U.S. Capitol Police.

The upgrades include "improved exterior lighting, improving locks in the home and the installation of a duress alarm button."

Rep. Lee Terry, R-Neb., received FEC approval to use up to $5,000 in campaign funds to improve security at his house after a recommendation from the Capitol Police.

The commission ruled in April that the security expenses at Terry's house "would not exist irrespective of the congressman's campaign or duties as a federal officeholder," The Hill reported. The FEC also said such an expense would not constitute a personal use of campaign money.

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About Catalina Camia

Catalina Camia leads the OnPolitics online community and has been at USA TODAY since 2005. She has been a reporter or editor covering politics and Congress for two decades, including stints at The Dallas Morning News and Congressional Quarterly. Follow her at @USATOnPolitics.